UNICEF Denounces Increase in Palestinian Child Deaths at the Hands of Israel

UNICEF recalled that Palestinian children were already exposed to the highest levels of violence in the last 20 years, since before 7 October 2023.

The UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced that on Monday, the number of palestinians killed by Israeli forces and settlers in the West Bank and East Jerusalem has increased 250% since last October 7.

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Through a statement UNICEF said A total of 143 Palestinian children have been killed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, since October last year, an increase of almost 250% compared to the previous nine months, during which 41 Palestinian children were killed».

The text stresses that 440 Palestinian children have been injured with ammunition, and also classifies as a «grave alarm» the unnecessary and excessive use of force against the most vulnerable.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said “For years, children living in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, have been exposed to horrific violence».

One Palestinian child has been killed in the West Bank every two days since October 2023, on average.

Children report being scared to walk around their neighbourhoods or to travel to school.

“The violence needs to stop now.” – @unicefchief

Details: https://t.co/YNKygcCCHY pic.twitter.com/wbdRbjLxtT

— UNICEF (@UNICEF) July 22, 2024

Russell said that «the situation has deteriorated significantly, coinciding with the escalation of hostilities inside Gaza».

The official said, We are seeing frequent reports of Palestinian children being arrested on their way home from school or shot while walking in the streets. The violence must stop now».

In addition, the non-governmental organization Save the Children reported that starvation, disease, abuse and sexual violence by the Israeli army have increased.

The NGO stated that Israel is the only country in the world that systematically prosecutes children in military courts.

He also stressed the need to put an end once and for all to arbitrary arrests and ill-treatment of Palestinian children.